Can a simple drug calm catatonia in autistic teens? new study hopes so
NCT ID NCT07498387
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tests whether benzodiazepines (midazolam and clonazepam) and, if needed, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can safely reduce catatonic symptoms in 30 adolescents aged 10–19 with profound autism. Participants first receive a midazolam challenge; those who respond then take daily clonazepam for up to 3 months. The main goal is to see if symptoms improve significantly without major side effects.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Midazolam and Clonazepam (benzodiazepines)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a safe, effective way to manage catatonic episodes in teens with profound autism, improving their daily functioning.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, early pilot study with only 30 participants and no control group, so results may not apply broadly. Benzodiazepines can cause sedation or dependence.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinics, Psychiatry and Neurology Center, Tanta University
Tanta, El-Gharbia Governorate, 31527, Egypt